Low Profile Camera Helmet Recommendation

[TallGuy 0]

I've put off turning my hobby into my job for as long as I reasonably could. But for the sake of my financial security I have decided to start flying camera (pending approval).

So now I'm trying to figure what kind of helmet to buy

I already have a PC330 that I am quite fond of as my video camera, and the Canon Rebel XTi has the popular vote at my DZ as the best value in still cameras.

With that out of the way I have a few key concerns:
Foremost is the issue of top mounting cameras. I am 6'9" and am already doing my best to avoid dragging my skull across the ceiling of the King Air without a camera. Furthermore, I have a full-on giraffe neck and am worried about opening shock with camera weight so far past my shoulders. I'd like to balance snag point reduction with ready access to media, Finally I'd like the helmet to be highly resistant to shifting in freefall.

I really like the forehead still mount and rear-entry configuration of the Bonehead Flat-Top Narrow. Unfortunately, it doesn't appear to lend itself to side mounting video. Is there something similar that does? Any other recommendations?

[Miami 0]

You can get a Kryten from 2KComposites to allow you to do a front mounted still and side mounted video. I think it would feel very off balance on the ground but it freefall it is essentially weightless so should fly just like any other helmet. Not sure how the weight distributed like that would affect your neck on opening...will have to ponder that one for a bit...

Miami

[vdschoor 0]

Tallguy,

I know you're a tall man.. since I sit on the airplane with you a lot..
I don't think you're going to get away with a front mount still and side mounted video, at least I wouldnt want to see you flying that way.. it will put a huge amount of stress on your neck.
Either go by everything on top (and get a FTP) or do video side mount, stills up top.. you'll find that you will adjust how you move around in the plane just fine to ensure you're not bumping your camera all the time.

Iwan

[Dokeman 0]

I'm 6'6" and jump a batrack (top mount vid and top mount vertical stills out of a king air and have no problems.. Just takes some getting used to.

[Miami 0]

I should have pointed that out as well...I'm 6'4" and jump everything on top out of anything from C-17's down to C-182's without problem. It is definitely about getting used to how much less clearance you have and staying low and aware, then any setup will work.

Miami

[TallGuy 0]

OK I'll take that under advisement. Thanks.